Who is Wade LeBlanc?
By Jason Evans
May 30, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Los Angeles Angels pitcher Wade LeBlanc (37) delivers a pitch against the Oakland Athletics during the first inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
When I saw that the Yankees had claimed Wade LeBlanc, I will be the first to admit I didn’t know much about him. I knew he was a lefty and I knew he was on the Marlins in his career but other than that not much. So let’s delve into who the new Yankee is and what his role will be.
First of all, he is 20-32 in his career. He was drafted in the second round in 2006 by the Padres. He was traded to the Marlins for John Baker in 2011. He was claimed off waivers by the Astros in 2013 and the Angels signed him last November. LeBlanc is 18-30 in his career as a starter with a 4.59 ERA.
What will his role be? Well, first of all, expect him to Alfredo Aceves spot on the roster. This isn’t the vulture from 2009. It’s more like a pigeon. I have to wonder if he will take any of Matt Thornton‘s time. He’s 0-1 with a 4.09 ERA so far this year. Lefties are hitting .267 off Thornton. He had an abysmal May, going 0-1 with an ERA of 7.71.
LeBlanc could even replace Vidal Nuno in the rotation if he pitches well enough and sees his role expanded. I’m not sure how long LeBlanc would be around, though with CC Sabathia and Michael Pineda not being back for awhile, we’ll see if LeBlanc is the next Aaron Small or not.